Waxleaf Privet Hedge

‘Texanum’ is a dense, evergreen Japanese privet with an upright form. Thick, glossy, dark-green leaves give it year-round structure, and conical sprays of scented white flowers appear in summer before black berries develop. The flower scent can be unpleasant, and the plant is harmful if eaten ([RHS cultivar profile](https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/117430/ligustrum-texanum/details); [UF/IFAS Japanese privet profile](https://ask.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/ST352)). ## Placement Use it as a hedge, privacy screen, foundation shrub, or container specimen. Oregon State University describes ‘Texanum’ at 8–10 feet tall and 4–6 feet wide, shorter and denser than Japanese privet species plants. It grows in full sun or partial shade and needs soil that drains freely; it tolerates a range of soil types. ## Maintenance Shape-prune as needed. For a clipped hedge, keep the top narrower than the base so lower branches receive light. Avoid standing water around the roots and check periodically for aphids, scale insects, leaf miners, or thrips.